Props: MMA Fighting

Quoteworthy:

"I'm not worried [about his 14-month layoff], and I'm not going to worry about it. My timing is on, my training is on, so I can't see that affecting me in the fight. I don't think it's going to make a difference. Like I said, being in shape the whole time, it's not like I'm cutting a bunch of weight. I didn't take a year off and get fat. I've been in shape for a long time. I didn't start my camp at 250. I started at 224. I'm not worried about it. I'm in shape and ready to go. If Rich wants to push, I'll push him as far as he wants to go... I had plenty of time to adapt and prepare for Rich. It's not a factor. This guy is a quality opponent and a tough guy, [but] I am planning to knock him out." 

Just as Quinton "Rampage" Jackson did for UFC 114, Chuck Liddell will be coming into his main event bout against Rich Franklin at UFC 115 following a 14-month layoff. Not exactly ideal for the 40-year old former UFC light heavyweight kingpin. "The Iceman" however, says he isn't worried about the affects of ring rust. Even though "Rampage" admitted his time off from the fight game played a role in losing to Rashad Evans last weekend, Chuck points to the fact that he started his training camp for this fight in much better shape that Jackson did for his. Can't really argue with that point. So, what do we think? Will Liddell's long layoff prove to be the difference maker in this match up? And is Chuck's prediction of a knockout in his favor in line with what you're thinking? Let's hear some thoughts.